But a Delaware County judge ruled the town needed at least four of its members to vote in favor of the moratorium -- what's known as a super majority -- in order for the local ban to hold, according to Rob Wedlake, attorney for Howard, Hinman & Kattel.

Wedlake represented 30 to 40 Sidney residents who wanted the ability to sell or lease their land to natural gas drilling companies.

Wedlake said a formal objection filed by his clients created the necessity for the super majority vote. He said the judge's decision could set a legal precedent for other town boards and land owners.